Brazil's newest 'six star destination'

One of Brazil's lesser-known States could become the country's next investment hotspot, argues one company.

Alagoas, the Northeast region's second-smallest state, has an impressive coastline relative to its size (230 km) which many say is the most beautiful in Brazil because of its coral reefs, myriad coconut palms, white sand, red cliffs and bright turquoise sea.

It has long been a popular Brazilian tourist destination, yet the opening of the international airport just outside the capital, Maceio, in 2005, with the potential of welcoming direct flights from Europe next year, has brought it to the attention of international investors for the first time.

Felipe Cavalcante, President of ADIT Nordeste, which is based in the state of Alagoas, commented: Alagoas is a potential high class tourist and real estate destination.

"The local government is focusing only on high-end real estate projects so the state receives the best developments in the country which add to its natural scenery.

"It is wonderful to see that the natural beauty of Alagoas will be enhanced by all these top quality real estate projects. Such partnerships are serving to leverage the economy of the state and attract more attention from international investors."

FACTS ABOUT Alagoas

- Alagoas has an average temperature of 25 degrees all year round with an average of 50mm of rainfall, clear warm waters and some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

- Most of the state is planted with coconut trees and sugar cane, with coral reefs forming swimming pools that are famous for snorkeling and bathing.

- There are over 230 km of unspoiled coastline. The state lies between Pernambuco in the north and Sergipe in the south and has a population of 3 million.

- The capital, Maceio has a population of nearly one million.